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Cinema is taking center stage at the U.S.-Mexico border later this month with an international film festival that reimagines the concept of borders.

Taking place from April 30 to May 2, the Nogales International Film Festival will transform the border wall into a movie screen, connecting audiences on both sides through the power of film with its "Film on the Fence" experience.

With films projected simultaneously on both sides of the border wall, the event creates a rare and powerful binational viewing experience.

“Instead of a line that divides us, the border becomes a canvas for connection through film,” festival director Oscar Rene Coronado told Tucson Spotlight. “We are incredibly proud to present ‘Film on the Fence,’ a truly unique cinematic experience that embodies the spirit of our festival.”

The festival’s goal is to establish the city of Nogales as a cultural hub for filmmakers from both the U.S. and Mexico and shine a light on the twin cities by bringing film, art and industry to their communities.

The hope is that the event will unite the two countries under the ideal of promoting culture and art across both nations, using the border as a point of connection.

The festival will be rolling out the red carpet for an appearance by Academy Award-nominated actress Adriana Barraza, who will be honored with the festival’s inaugural “Breaking Borders” award and a special legacy tribute.

The screening schedule includes films starring Barraza, a celebrated actress with a five-decade career that spans continents and genres, who has captivated audiences in films such as "Babel," "Amores Perros," "Thor" and "Blue Beetle."

The festival will host a special tribute to Barraza’s career, with featured screenings of "El Último Vagón" and "El Tesoro." Attendees will also get the opportunity to engage directly with Barraza in a Q&A session, followed by a panel during which she’ll reflect on her 50-year journey in the film industry.

Screening locations aren’t limited to the border wall. The festival will feature a slate of screenings and events on both sides of the international line.

In the U.S., Nogales’ Oasis Cinema will host independent films from around the world.

Across the border in Nogales, Sonora, Imfoculta will provide a stage for Latin American filmmakers to share their stories with local and international audiences alike.

With films ranging from thought-provoking dramas to inspiring documentaries, the festival offers something for film lovers of every kind. Admission is free, with VIP passes offering a more immersive experience available for purchase.

The official festival program, including full film lineups and panel details, will be released on April 12.

"Coupled with the honor of welcoming Adriana Barraza and celebrating her extraordinary career, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable event,” said festival director Coronado.

Samantha Callicutt is a Tucson Spotlight reporter and graduate student at the University of Arizona. Contact her at Scallicutt@arizona.edu.

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